Embedded and Embodied | Pioneering building blocks for Immersive Virtual Reality addiction treatments of persons with Mild to Borderline Intellectual Disability and Addictive Disorder
Simon Langener is a PhD student in the department Human Media Interaction. (Co)Promotors are prof.dr. D.K.J. Heylen; dr.ir. R. Klaassen & dr. J.E.L. Nagel from the faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science.
The research described in this dissertation pioneers building blocks for Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) addiction treatments for persons with Mild to Borderline Intellectual Disability (MBID, Intelligence Quotient = 50-85) and Addictive Disorder (AD). Persons with a MBID face a higher risk of ADs and poorer treatment outcomes due to cognitive and adaptive limitations, such as difficulties with abstract thinking and problem-solving. Standard AD treatments often do not meet their needs, highlighting the need for alternative approaches. IVR offers a promising approach by simulating real-life risk scenarios, enabling patients to experience and manage craving responses in a safe and controlled environment. Moreover, IVR can support patients to train coping strategies and reduce reliance on imagination, which is particularly challenging for individuals with MBID and AD. In line with the current treatment paradigm in clinical practice, this dissertation explores the development of IVR-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for AD treatment in patients with MBID. Our research is structured into three parts: (I) theoretical foundations, (II) technical development, and (III) evaluation of an IVR peer pressure role-play to drink alcohol for patients with MBID and Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). Key findings highlight the feasibility of IVR in eliciting substance craving, training coping skills, and enhancing treatment engagement. However, interaction barriers exist, particularly when using the (virtual) controllers in the IVR. Nonetheless, an IVR-CBT can reduce treatment barriers by simulating AD-related risk scenarios for an embedded cognition in patients, and by embodying a virtual body (part) for an embodied cognition and natural behaviours in the IVR. Moreover, therapists gained deeper insights into the patient behaviour to tailor treatment activities. Future research should focus on clinical validation, therapist training, and factors for implementing IVR-CBT into addiction treatments for MBID patients effectively. Despite these challenges, we conclude that IVR-CBT is a promising tool for enhancing AD treatments in this population.
